Chandigarh, Feb 12 (NationPress) The Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) has officially declared the initiation of a mass outreach program starting February 17 in Qadian town, located in Gurdaspur district. This program marks the launch of the first segment of an election campaign that will feature 40 rallies over the course of approximately one month, aimed at the upcoming Assembly elections scheduled for early next year.

This decision was made by party President Sukhbir Singh Badal following discussions with senior party leaders.

Addressing the situation, Badal stated, "We will tackle all pressing issues facing Punjab and present our vision for the state's future. I am confident that the people of Punjab will unite behind SAD, which is uniquely positioned to meet their needs."

Senior leader Daljit Singh Cheema mentioned that the initiative would consist of the 'Punjab Bachao -- Sukhbir Singh Badal Liyao' rallies throughout the state, culminating on Baisakhi on April 13.

He noted that 28 rallies are scheduled to take place before March 31, with plans already in place.

"The remaining 12 rallies will occur in April," he added.

Cheema emphasized that the party has always adhered to ethical political practices.

"We have consistently honored our commitments in the past. This time, we will share our vision for the state, which will encompass all societal segments and prioritize peace and communal unity," Cheema stated.

The Akali Dal leader indicated that the party would clarify its stance on critical issues and demonstrate its dedication to resolving them.

"These issues include the transfer of Punjab's capital, Chandigarh, back to the state, as well as addressing the injustice faced by Punjab regarding its river waters," he explained.

"The decline of federalism has adversely impacted Punjab's finances, affecting the allocation of Central funds and the autonomy of states to utilize them as needed," Cheema added.

He pointed out that the agricultural crisis and the serious challenges farmers face, such as debt and suicides, along with the lack of compensation for losses incurred during the 2025 floods, will be key topics during the rallies.

"We will advocate for making the minimum support price (MSP) a legal guarantee, reducing fertilizer subsidies, and safeguarding farmer interests in trade agreements with the US," he continued.

"Additionally, we will strongly address the need for specialized programs to support the Scheduled Caste community, enhance job opportunities for youth, and expose the corruption, failure to maintain law and order, and the sheltering of the drug mafia by the Aam Aadmi Party government," he concluded.